Tesla has set a major objective of achieving the first completely seamless autopilot experience in its modern vehicle line. The concept of self-driving cars has been a dream of science fiction for decades, making this goal commendable. However, Tesla’s vehicles have faced numerous failures and malfunctions in their pursuit of true autopilot, which has sparked controversy and investigations into the automaker’s self-driving “beta.”

According to a report by The Washington Post published in June of this year, Tesla’s autopilot system has been involved in or directly caused around 736 car crashes since 2019. These crashes have resulted in at least 17 confirmed fatalities of drivers, passengers, or pedestrians. Furthermore, over 360,000 Tesla vehicles have been recalled due to unsafe driving behavior with their self-driving beta software in various high-traffic situations.

According to the NHTSA, the recall was initiated because the Full Self-Driving Beta, both installed and pending installation, caused some Tesla vehicles to exceed speed limits or navigate intersections unlawfully or unpredictably, posing a significant risk of accidents.

While Tesla’s ambition to develop self-driving technology is admirable, the numbers speak for themselves: the technology is not yet fully road-ready, and the company’s insistence on including it has deterred drivers concerned about their own safety and the safety of others.